Quality (protein and fiber contents) in alfalfa are mainly influenced by leaf to stem ratio. In order to maximise this ratio at Lodi Institute we have followed different ways: (i) tolerance to early cutting (blue bud stage); (ii) modification of stem morphology towards maximum height and shorter internodes; and (iii) high growth rate associated to a delay of the reproductive phase. Consequently, three plant models have been defined for the different breeding strategies; data from the three approaches to vigour and quality improvement are presented.